Located in the southeast corner of British Columbia, along the shores of Kootenay Lake, the Nelson and Kootenay Lake region is an inspirational mecca for foodies, art-goers, music lovers, history buffs and adventure seekers.
Here’s a quick guide to our beautiful region, and a list of the communities and areas in the region.
Visiting Balfour for the first time or looking to find something new and awesome in the area?
Balfour is a serene community cradled by the Selkirk and Purcell mountain ranges, located between Nelson and Kaslo along Kootenay Lake. Balfour is home to fishing, hiking, artisans, dining, biking, golfing, beachfronts, and the Kootenay Lake Ferry (the longest free ferry in the world!)
HOW TO GET HERE
Despite our rural location, there are many easy ways to get to our region. Check out these great resources for more details on: nearby Airports, Ferry Schedules, Border Crossings, and visit DriveBC for up-to-date road information.
Stay up-to-date on local news and alerts around the region, across British Columbia, and neighbouring provinces and states.
- COVID-19
- Road information at DriveBC
- BC Wildfire Info – maps, air quality and more
- Webcams DriveBC – Ferries and Roads
- Weather Warnings
- Responsible Travel – #findingawesome
WHERE TO STAY
View our Interactive Map to find places to stay in Balfour and across the region – filter by category and location. Use the reservation system to see current rates and make direct bookings on select accommodations.
THINGS TO DO
Take a peek at the variety of restaurant options. During the summer and high-traffic times be sure to make a reservation – dining is one of our other hot attractions with over 110 restaurants in the region.
Find local events on our Events Calendar – from concerts to markets and dance classes. The calendar is updated regularly so be sure to check it before and during your vacation.
Visit local retreats, yoga & meditation studios, spas or find other unique ways to relax.
There is both road and mountain biking in the Balfour area. The Nelson Cycling Club website has up-to-date information on events and trails in the area. Kokanee Creek Provincial Park has a variety of technical mountain biking trails from beginner to expert. Across the ferry, Procter has the aptly named Proctologist trail, offering an intermediate MTB experience. Road riding is all along Highway 3A and 31, following the shoreline of Kootenay Lake, with rolling hills that lead you to views that beckon you to pull over, take a moment, and breathe in the fresh air. Kootenay Cycling Adventures offers fully supported and self supported tours.
There are two courses in the Balfour area. Balfour Golf Course is a prestigious 18-hole course which carves through the forest and finishes with a scenic view across Kootenay Lake. Alternatively, you can choose to stay in Balfour at the Kootenay Lakeview Spa Resort and Event Centre and enjoy their par-three Eagle View Golf Course.
Kootenay Lake is one of the largest lakes in British Columbia, and is perfect for sailing, kayaking, windsurfing, SUP (Stand Up Paddle), canoeing, leisurely boat rides, and fishing. Nearby rivers provide chill and casual floating experiences.
Kokanee, Rainbow Trout and Burbot are all present in Kootenay Lake. Various marinas and public boat launches also make Balfour a popular destination for boaters, more info on fishing and charters here.
Tennis, Soccer, & More
North of the ferry terminal, at the end of Charles Street, adjacent to the lake and nestled against the forest lies a stunning recreation area opening summer 2021. For more information visit the Balfour Recreation Commision. Follow along on Facebook for the most up to date information!
Gazebo
The multi-function gazebo will be 20x40ft once completed, have a commercial sized BBQ pit, and will be available for rent for concerts, festivals, sporting events, or private functions!
Pickleball
A local favourite, the Balfour recreational area has 5 pickleball courts for casual or competitive play and events!
Tennis courts
Two full-size tennis courts are available for public use or private rental!
Washrooms
The BRC is building two full-function bathrooms to accommodate users of the recreation area!
Soccer
A full-size soccer field that is also free to use for other activities.
Events Centres
- The Chapel
- Balfour Community Hall
Come find awesome!!
Check out these trip ideas to plan your next adventure.
The ferry landing food, clothing, and a well-stocked gift shop with fishing tackle, coffee/tea and gas station. Artisans are located at the landing but also along the highway. Just look for the blue “Artisan” signs. Check out our list of Balfour Shopping options.
MAPS AND LISTINGS
Learn about other communities in our region, explore using the interactive map to find what we have to offer and where, and for even more awesome things to see and do visit our trip ideas page.